Leonard Nimoy, Mr. Spock, Dies at Age 83

Good night, Mr. Spock

"Star Trek" actor Leonard Nimoy has died at age 83. The New York Timesreports that Leonard Nimoy passed away this morning in his Los Angeles home. Susan Bay Nimoy, his wife, confirmed that the cause of death was end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Nimoy was a bit actor on multiple television series before landing a role as Mr. Spock, the half-Vulcan, half-Human crew member on the Starship Enterprise in "Star Trek." Nimoy was the only actor to appear in both pilot episodes for the series, and has become most famous for the role. He reprised it not only in the 1970s animated series, but in eight of the "Star Trek" spin-off movies, in guest starring roles on "Star Trek: The Next Generation," and video games.

Nimoy was the only actor to appear in both pilot episodes for the series

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

He also hosted the paranormal television series "In Search Of," as well as writing autobiographies and books of poetry. He first stepped behind the director's chair on a 1973 episode of "The Night Gallery" before taking on bigger projects. He directed two "Star Trek" films, "The Search for Spock" and "The Voyage Home," as well as the comedy hit "3 Men and a Baby."

Never one to take himself too seriously (despite the gravity of his voice), Nimoy also made two guest appearances on "The Simpsons." He also appeared as the recurring character William Bell on the paranormal television series "Fringe."

In recent years, as his health faltered, Nimoy urged others to quit smoking, stating that it was a mistake from his youth that had come to haunt him.

He is survived by his second wife and two children from an earlier marriage, Adam and Julie Nimoy.

This was his final tweet:

A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. LLAP

A Part of Hearst Digital Media
Popular Mechanics participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.